Tesla announces new voluntary recall

Tesla Motors has issued a voluntary recall for 439 Roadster models 2.0 and 2.5. The recall was initiated on Friday, October 1, 2010 after Tesla was made aware of a single incident involving a 12v low voltage auxiliary cable.

According to Tesla, the cable in one customer’s vehicle rubbed against a carbon fiber panel. This led to a short, smoke, and a possible fire in the right front headlamp. The problem was isolated to the cable itself and not the battery pack or the vehicle’s main power system.

Although this was an isolated incident, Tesla initiated the voluntary recall and notified regulatory agencies of the incident and the recall. The problem can be corrected by placing a protective sleeve over the 12v low voltage auxiliary cable. The repair can be completed by Tesla Service Rangers, Tesla’s mobile service team, at a customer’s home or place of business in approximately one hour.

Tesla has already begun the customer notification process via email and postal mail. Only customers with a Tesla Roadster 2.0 and 2.5 are affected. Earlier Roadster 1.5 vehicles, those with a VIN ending with 500 or before, are not affected as they do not include the specific cable in question.

This is not the first recall for Tesla. In 2009, Tesla recalled 345 roadsters because bolts in the wheel hubs may not have been tightened sufficiently. However, automakers deal with recalls on a regular basis, just look at all of the Lexus and Toyota recalls from early 2010, so the newest Tesla recall shouldn’t have much of an impact on Tesla sales.

Tesla Roadster owners seeking more information can call the company toll free at (877) 798-3752.